Eggplant Or Zucchini Souffle
A savory eggplant or zucchini souffle with cheesy, creamy, and flavorful layers, perfect for a comforting vegetarian main or side dish that appeals to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9-inch casserole dish.
- Cut eggplant or zucchini into pieces and cook in boiling water until tender.
- Drain well and mash slightly.
- Make white sauce with butter, flour, and milk until thick and smooth.
- Add the cooked eggplant or zucchini, grated onion, catsup, grated cheese, bread crumbs, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper to the sauce.
- Beat egg yolks and stir them into the mixture.
- Beat egg whites until stiff and fold them into the vegetable mixture.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared casserole dish.
- Bake for 45 minutes or until a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter option, consider using low-fat milk or margarine instead of butter. You can also substitute the eggplant with zucchini for a different flavor profile. If you don't have grated onion, onion powder works in a pinch. To enhance the flavor, try adding some herbs like thyme or oregano. This dish can be made ahead and refrigerated before baking.
Serving Suggestions
This Eggplant or Zucchini Souffle pairs beautifully with a fresh side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. For a heartier option, serve alongside grilled chicken or fish. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top can add a nice finishing touch. For dessert, consider serving Aunt Nell's Brown Sugar Candy for a sweet ending.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions for a quicker option, but the oven method keeps the souffle's texture best.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Eggplant Or Zucchini Souffle contains roughly 739 calories, with 16g protein, 152g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (34% of the Daily Value), protein (32% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1439mg per serving (63% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare this souffle in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the souffle mixture a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just be sure to fold the beaten egg whites in just before baking for the best rise. Bake it fresh when you're ready to serve for optimal texture.
What can I use instead of Cheddar cheese?
If you don't have Cheddar cheese, you can substitute with Gruyère or Monterey Jack for a different flavor. For a non-dairy option, use a vegan cheese that melts well, ensuring it complements the other ingredients.
Can I freeze the souffle?
Freezing is not recommended for this souffle as it may affect the texture when reheated. However, you can freeze the uncooked mixture in a freezer-safe container. Just thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).